importuning
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ɪmˈpɔːrtʃənɪŋ/
KK: /ɪmˈpɔrtʃənɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The act of persistently asking someone for something, often in a way that is annoying or bothersome.
Example
His importuning for donations became too much for the charity to handle.
Conversation
Have you heard about that case of importuning downtown?
Yeah, it sounds really concerning and frustrating.
It's alarming how often people face such importuning these days.
I know! We need to find ways to support each other better.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
entreaty
solicitation
request
Antonyms
refusal
denial
rejection
verb
Definition
To ask someone for something in a persistent and often annoying way.
Example
She kept importuning her friend for a favor until he finally agreed.
Tense Forms
Past: importuned
Past Participle: importuned
Conversation
I heard some people are importuning others for help with their projects.
Really? That sounds a bit aggressive, don’t you think?
Yeah, it can be overwhelming when someone keeps importuning you for favors.
Root Explanation
Importuning is formed from "im-" (meaning in or into) and "portare" (meaning to carry). The word originally described the act of carrying a request or demand into someone's presence, often in a persistent or urgent manner.
Memory Tip
Think of someone bringing a request 'into' ('im-') someone's attention and 'carrying' it ('portare') persistently — that's why importuning means to urgently request something.
Visually Confused Words
unimporting
portunian
imploring